Steam Railroading Institute Appoints Founding Member Randy Paquette as Interim Executive Director

OWOSSO, Mich. — The Steam Railroading Institute (SRI) has appointed Randy Paquette as Interim Executive Director, ushering in an exciting chapter for the nationally recognized nonprofit

dedicated to preserving Michigan’s railroad heritage.

Paquette brings decades of executive leadership, project management, and organizational expertise to the role. He retired as Senior Director of Design and Construction at Wayne State University, where he led major campus planning, capital improvement, and construction initiatives involving complex facilities and multimillion-dollar projects. Paquette holds a Master of Business Administration from the Eli Broad College of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Michigan State University.

Perhaps even more significant to the Institute’s history, Paquette is one of the founding members of the Michigan State Trust for Railway Preservation – the organization formed to save and restore the iconic Pere Marquette 1225 while the locomotive was owned by and located on the campus of Michigan State University. His leadership and vision helped lay the foundation for what would eventually become today’s Steam Railroading Institute.

“Randy’s appointment represents both a return to our roots and an exciting opportunity to build for the future,” said Mike Burgett, President of the Steam Railroading Institute Board of Directors. “His deep understanding of our mission, combined with decades of executive leadership and experience managing large-scale projects, makes him uniquely qualified to guide the Institute through this transition. We are excited about the opportunities his leadership creates as we strengthen partnerships, expand preservation efforts, and continue growing our educational and excursion programs.”

Paquette’s appointment follows the resignation of Executive Director Ashley Deming. The Board of Directors expressed its sincere appreciation for Deming’s service and contributions to the organization and wishes her continued success in her future endeavors.

As Interim Executive Director, Paquette will work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, members, and community partners to advance the Institute’s mission while positioning the organization for long-term success. His appointment provides continuity of leadership while leveraging the perspective of someone who has been part of the organization’s story since its earliest days.

“The opportunity to serve an organization that has meant so much to me for decades is truly an honor,” said Paquette. “The Steam Railroading Institute has accomplished remarkable things through the dedication of its volunteers, members, donors, staff, and supporters. I look forward to working alongside them as we preserve our rich railroad heritage while creating new opportunities for education, community engagement, and unforgettable experiences for future generations.”

The Steam Railroading Institute remains committed to preserving railroad history, educating the public, and operating nationally recognized excursion experiences centered around the world-famous Pere Marquette 1225. Under Paquette’s leadership, the organization will continue to pursue strategic partnerships, enhance visitor experiences, support restoration initiatives, and strengthen its role as one of Michigan’s premier heritage tourism destinations.